HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT PROGRESSION PLAN (GRADES 9-12)

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HIGH SCHOOL

STUDENT PROGRESSION PLAN

(GRADES 9-12)

2014-2015

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Required Public Notice (F.S. 1008.25(8))

The School Board of Sarasota County, Florida will annually publish in the local newspaper, and report in writing to the Florida State Board of Education by September 1, the following information on the prior school year:

• The provision of section 1008.25(8)(b) relating to public school student progression and the district school boards’ policies and procedures on the student retention and promotion.

• By grade, the number and percentage of all students in grades 3 through 10 performing at Levels 1 and 2 on the reading portion of the FCAT 2.0.

• By grade, the number and percentage of students retained in grades 3 through 10. • Information of the total number of students who were promoted for good cause, by

each category of good cause as specified in FS 1008.25(6)(b).

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. GRADUATION EQUIREMENTS………..…………. 8

II. GRADUATION PLANS AND TIMELINES………..…... 9

Traditional Four-Year High School Program (2010-2011)………...…….……… 10

Traditional Four-Year High School Program (2011-2012)………...…………....…… 11

Traditional Four-Year High School Program (2012-2013)………...……….…..….… 12

Traditional Four-Year High School Program (2013-2014)………..………...…….. 13

Traditional Four-Year High School Program (2014-2015)………..……….. 14

18 Credit Accelerated Diploma………..….………….…..… 15

24 Credit Early Graduation Diploma………...……….……..… 15

Academic Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL)……… 16

III. COURSE CREDIT………….………... 18

Course Substitutions and Waivers……….…….….. 19

NCAA Eligibility……….….….…... 20

Course Titles on Transcripts………..…………. 20

Determination of Mastery of Student Performance……….……...…… 20

English Language Learner (ELL)/Limited English Proficient (LEP) Credit…………..…... 21

Variety of Instructional Techniques and Instructional Media………..….……... 21

IV. TRANSFER OF CREDITS……….. 21

Requirements for Transfer, Foreign-born and/or ELL/LEP Students………..…….…. 21

Procedures for Transfer……….…... 22

Institutions with Automatic Credit Approval for Transfer………..….. 22

Transfer from Non-accredited and Foreign Schools……….………. 24

Transfer from Home Schools………..…..…… 24

Validation of Credit………..…..…... 25

Transfer for Foreign Exchange Students……… 25

Transfer of Credit: Educational Opportunity for Military Children………... 26

V. DROP/ADD TIMELINES, PROCEDURES, AND GRADING FOR CONTINUING STUDENTS.. 26

Timeline for Dropping Courses in our High Schools, Sarasota Virtual School ....……...26

Timeline for Dropping Courses in Sarasota Virtual Academy …..………..……….. 26

Timeline for Dropping Dual Enrollment Courses ……..……….…... 27

Timeline for Dropping Florida Virtual School Courses………..27

Grade Assignment for Dropped Courses……….……. 27

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VI. GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION……….…..……..….... 28

Traditional High Schools……….……….…... 28

Block High School SPHS End of Year Promotion………..…... 28

Traditional High Schools: Mid-Year Promotion……….… 28

Block High School SPHS Mid-Year Promotion……….…….. 29

Pine View High School End/Mid-Year Promotion………... 29

VII. READING REMEDIATION….……….……....29

VIII. REMEDIATION……….… 30

IX. PROMOTION, RETENTION, AND PROMOTION WITH INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT…….… 30

Parent Notification of Progress……… 31

Parent Notification of Potential Failure………...…. 31

Retention for ELL/LEP……….... 31

High School Credit for Middle School Students………... 32

X. REQUIREMENTS FOR CURRICULUM, INSTRUCTION AND ASSESSMENT……….……. 33

Career and Professional Academies……….…….. 33

Requirements for English Language Learner Instruction……….…….. 33

Requirements for Participation in Statewide Assessments………..…… 33

Online Course Requirement……….... 33

XI. COMMUNITY SERVICE……… 34

Requirements for Credit and Reporting……….…….………. 34

XII. STUDENT RIGHTS FOR INSTRUCTION……….………. 34

Statement of Non-discrimination……….……. 34

Provisions for English Language Learners (ELL)……….…….... 34

Equity and Non-discrimination/Harassment Policy……….….… 34

XIII. GRADING AND GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA)……….…… 35

Quality Points for Courses………....35

Quality Points for Honors, AICE, Pre-/International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment Courses………. 36

Computation of Grade Point Average (GPA)………. 36

GPA and Other Eligibility Requirements for Interscholastic Activities………... 36

Graduation GPA……….…..…. 37

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XIV. GRADING AND STUDENT PERFORMANCE……….….….… 38

Teacher Authority and Responsibility for Grades……….…..….. 38

Grading Scale……… 38

Work Habits and Skills……….……..… 38

Determination of Final Course Grades………..….…….. 38

Semester Exams for Weighted Courses……….………… 38

Failure of One Semester of a One-Credit Course……….……….. 39

Reporting of Grades and Attendance……….………. 39

Grade Challenge……….……… 39

Incomplete Grade………..……….……. 40

Grade Replacement/Forgiveness………..……. 40

End of Course Examinations Retakes………...……….. 41

Required Information for Report Cards……….………... 41

Recognition of Graduates……….………….. 41

Report Card Requirements and Distribution……….………… 42

Instruction and Attendance Requirements for Credit Earning……….………… 42

Excused Absences……….………… 43

Make-Up Work Following an Excused Absence……….…………. 43

Timelines for Make-Up Work……….…….. 43

Attendance and Academic Performance Expectations/Exemptions……….….……...44

Full-Time Students……….……….……. 44

Accommodations for Eligible Students……….……. 44

Student Re-enrollment………..….….… 44

XV. DIPLOMA AND CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION OPTIONS……….…..………. 45

Standard Diploma……….…….. 45

Certificate of Completion……….…….. 45

Special Diploma/Special Certificate of Completion……….…….…….. 46

Standard High School Diploma Designations……….….…..….. 46

XVI. SECONDARY CREDIT-EARNING OPTIONS………. 46

Dropout Prevention Programs………... 46

Performance Based Diploma Program………..….. 47

GED Exit Option Program………..……. 47

Home Education………..……. 48

Home Education Students and High School Graduation………..…... 49

Sarasota Virtual Academy………..…... 49

Florida Virtual School………..….. 50

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XVII. ADDITIONAL SECONDARY AND POSTSECONDARY CREDIT-EARNING OPTIONS……….... 52

Advanced Placement………..… 52

Dual Enrollment………. 53

Early Admission to Colleges and Universities………..……. 54

Nationally Recognized Industry Certification………..….… 54

Career and Technical Education Program Articulation……….. 54

SECTION 2: EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION………... 55

I. ESE STUDENT RIGHTS AND PARENT NOTIFICATION ……….……… 55

II. DIPLOMA AND CERTIFICATE OPTIONS FOR ESE STUDENTS………..…..….. 57

Standard Diploma……….…… 57

Special Diploma………...…...…. 59

III. SPECIAL DIPLOMA OPTION I………..……… 59

IV. SPECIAL DIPLOMA OPTION II………..…….... 60

V. CAREER PLACEMENT OPTIONS FOR ESE STUDENTS………...….… 61

VI. CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION……….…..…… 62

VII. SPECIAL CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETIONS CRITIERA………..………. 62

VIII. GRADING, PROGRESS REPORTS, AND REPORT CARDS FOR ESE STUDENTS……….……... 62

IX. OTHER PROGRAMS: THERAPIES AND ITINERANT SERVICES……….…….. 62

SECTION 3: APPENDICES APPENDIX A REQUIRED HIGH SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS……….………....…… 63

APPENDIX B COLLEGE READINESS COURSES……….………...… 65

APPENDIX C MASTERY EXAM REQUEST……….……….…… 67

APPENDIX D EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR MILITARY CHILDREN……….…….… 68

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PREFACE

The Student Progression Plan is designed to support the philosophy and goals of the School Board of Sarasota County, Florida. The plan recognizes that students have unique

characteristics, needs and learning styles. It addresses a number of areas including student progression, remediation alternatives, retention, assessment, and placement in special and alternative programs.

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I. GRADUATION REQUIRMENTS

To graduate from high school with a standard diploma, students must complete the following requirements:

A. Successfully complete all required courses for a standard, International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) diploma and earn credits as designated. Entering Grade 9 students must earn at least twenty-six (26) credits.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

BHS NPHS RHS SHS VHS SPHS PV SVS

26 26 26 26 26 28 26 26

1. Pine View School for the Gifted students must earn twenty-six (26) credits as established in the Pine View diploma criteria, including a requirement that students complete level 3 of a foreign language. Students at Pine View are not eligible for 18 credit acceleration diploma option because Pine View is a choice school based on eligibility.

2. Students who meet eligibility criteria may select one of the graduation options and is exclusively at the request and agreement of student and parent. To facilitate selection of the appropriate graduation plan option as the student enters grade 9, the school district will provide information to parents and students related to graduation options. Selection of the graduation options may be completed by the student at any time between grades 9 and grade 12.

B. Achieve a cumulative unweighted grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. 1. Grade point averages in high school shall be calculated on both a weighted (5

point) and unweighted (4 point) scale. A weighted system for high school courses shall be utilized so that students are not penalized in terms of final “average” or class standing if they undertake rigorous academic work.

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C. Pass the appropriate state reading assessment and End of Course Exams (EOC) required for graduation. Concordant scores on the SAT/ACT or other state approved assessments can be used to meet the reading graduation

requirement.

D. Any home school student wishing to receive a diploma from his/her districted high school should get specific information about EOC (End of Course) and statewide standardized assessments required for graduation and credits from the School Choice office prior to grade 10.

II. GRADUATION PLANS AND TIMELINE

A. There are four plans for students entering Sarasota County high schools to meet graduation requirements for a standard diploma:

• Plan 1: The traditional four-year plan (credit requirements determined by the year student enters grade 9)

• Plan 2: ACCEL Diploma Option (18 Credits)

• Plan 3: Early Graduation Standard Diploma (24 Credits)

 Plan 4: State Standard Diploma (24 Credits)

B. Selection of the accelerated 18 credit ACCEL Diploma Option may be completed by the student and parent at any time during high school. C. Graduation from high school may be accomplished by fulfilling the

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TRADITIONAL FOUR-YEAR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM

TRADITIONAL FOUR-YEAR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION FOR STUDENTS ENTERING GRADE 9 IN 2010 -2011

SUBJECT CREDITS COMMENTS

English 4

Mathematics 4 *Algebra 1 or a series of courses

equivalent to Algebra 1 and Geometry or a series of courses equivalent to Geometry are required

Science 3 Two of the three credits must have a

lab component

World History 1

US History 1

Economics w/Financial Literacy .5

American Government .5

Performing/Fine/Arts 1 Speech, Debate or specific practical arts

PE (HOPE) AND Health 1

Remainder of required credits will be Electives *See credit requirement chart

10 (Traditional Schedule) Or

12 (Block Schedule)

Any course approved by the School Board of Sarasota County that is appropriate for Grade 9 or above may fulfill an elective credit for graduation except study hall and other courses identified as noncredit (NC), Adult Basic Education, and GED preparation. Earn passing scores (as defined by the State of Florida) on the standardized grade 10 Reading assessment or other assessments that are approved by the State of Florida. *30% of the Algebra 1 EOC will be calculated into the final grade.

The district’s Course Review Committee, composed of school-based and district level representatives, will

review and approve courses submitted by schools for inclusion in the school master schedule and submit it to the School Board of Sarasota County for approval. Criteria for approval will be developed and applied to ensure that courses are part of a program of study that will enable students to complete a four-year (or three-year accelerated) graduation plan. Schools must submit courses to the district committee by November 1 of the school year prior to scheduled

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Earn passing scores (as defined by the State of Florida) on the standardized grade 10 reading assessment and Algebra 1 EOC or scores on the other assessments that are approved by the State of Florida. * The EOC must be taken and will be calculated as 30% of the final grade for Biology and Geometry; in addition, the Algebra 1 EOC must be passed for a standard diploma, unless Algebra 1 was taken prior to the 11-12 school year. **An online course taken for high school credit during grades 6-8 can also fulfill this requirement.

The district’s Course Review Committee, composed of school-based and district level representatives, will review and approve courses submitted by schools for inclusion in the school master schedule and submit it to the School Board of Sarasota County for approval. Criteria for approval will be developed and applied to ensure that courses are part of a program of study that will enable students to complete a four-year (or three-year accelerated) graduation plan. Schools must submit courses to the district committee by November 1 of the school year prior to scheduled implementation.

TRADITIONAL FOUR-YEAR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION FOR STUDENTS ENTERING GRADE 9 IN 2011-2012

English 4

equivalent to Algebra 1 and *Geometry or a series of courses equivalent to Geometry are required.

lab component and one of the three credits must be Biology 1 * or its equivalent.

World History 1

US History 1

Performing/Fine Arts 1 Speech, Debate or specific practical arts

Remainder of required credits will be Electives

*See credit requirement chart **At least one course must be an online course

10 (Traditional Schedule) Or

12 (Block Schedule)

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English 4 Major concentration in composition,

reading for information, and literature.

equivalent to Algebra 1 and *Geometry or a series of courses equivalent to Geometry are required.

lab component and one of the three credits must be *Biology 1 or its equivalent.

World History 1

US History 1

Performing/Fine Arts 1 Speech, Debate, specific practical arts

*See credit requirement chart **At least one course must be an online course 10 (Traditional Schedule) Or 12 (Block Schedule) Or 8 (Oak Park)

Exemption to online course graduation requirement for 12th grade student enrolled in Florida high school one year or less.

Any course approved by the School Board of Sarasota County that is appropriate for Grade 9 or above may fulfill an elective credit for graduation except study hall and other courses identified as noncredit (NC), Adult Basic Education, and GED preparation. Earn passing scores (as defined by the State of Florida) on the standardized grade 10 Reading assessment or scores that are concordant. * Students must take the appropriate End of Course exams as required by the state of Florida and 30% of the end of course exam will be calculated into the final grade for Biology, Geometry and US History The Algebra 1 EOC must be passed for a standard diploma.

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equivalent to Algebra 1 or higher and *Geometry or a series of courses equivalent to Geometry are required.*

World History 1

US History 1

Performing/Fine Arts 1 Speech, Debate or specific practical arts

12th grade student enrolled in Florida high school one year or less is exempt from online requirement.

Any course approved by the School Board of Sarasota County that is appropriate for Grade 9 or above may fulfill an elective credit for graduation except study hall and other courses identified as noncredit (NC), Adult Basic Education, and GED preparation. Earn passing scores (as defined by the State of Florida) on the standardized grade 10 Reading assessment or scores that are concordant * Students must take the appropriate End of Course exams as required by the state of Florida and 30% of the end of course exam will be calculated into the final grade for Biology, Geometry, US History and Algebra 1. The Algebra 1 EOC must be passed for a standard diploma.

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equivalent to Algebra 1 and *Geometry or a series of courses equivalent to Geometry are required.*

World History 1

US History 1

Performing/Fine Arts 1 Speech, Debate, specific practical arts

12th grade student enrolled in Florida high school one year or less is exempt from online requirement.

Any course approved by the School Board of Sarasota County that is appropriate for Grade 9 or above may fulfill an elective credit for graduation except study hall and other courses identified as noncredit (NC), Adult Basic Education, and GED preparation.

Earn passing scores (as defined by the State of Florida) on the standardized grade 10 standardized reading assessment * Students must take the appropriate End of Course exams as required by the state of Florida and 30% of the end of EOC will be calculated into the final grade for Biology, Geometry, US History and Algebra 1. The Algebra 1 EOC must be passed for a standard diploma. **An online course taken for high school credit during grades 6-8 can also fulfill this requirement. The district’s Course Review Committee, composed of school-based and district level representatives, will review and approve courses submitted by schools for inclusion in the school master schedule and submit it to the School Board of Sarasota County for approval. Criteria for approval will be developed and applied to ensure that courses are part of a program of study that will enable students to

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18 CREDIT ACCEL DIPLOMA OPTION

The student is required to complete all course requirements and assessments as specified by the State of Florida. The requirements are available in the High School Student Progression Plan. Parents and students will meet with the school counselor to discuss and select this option. Post-secondary plans, social and emotional readiness need to be addressed prior to the selection of this plan.

• The 18 Credit Accelerated Diploma option was implemented July 1, 2013.

• Students are required to earn the 15 core credits required for the standard diploma. • Three elective credits are required.

• The HOPE credit is not required. • A virtual course is not required.

• All assessments and grade point average for the standard diploma are required for the 18 Credit Diploma.

24 CREDIT EARLY GRADUATION DIPLOMA

The student may select this plan to graduate prior to the 8th semester of high school. The student is required to complete all course requirements and assessments as specified by the State of Florida. The requirements are available in the High School Student Progression Plan.

Parents and students will meet with the school counselor to discuss and select this option. Post- secondary plans and social/emotional readiness need to be addressed prior to the selection of this plan.

• The 24 Credit Early Graduation Diploma requires students to earn the 16 core credits required for the standard diploma.

• Eight elective credits are required as well as the assessments and grade point average for the standard high school diploma.

• All requirements for this diploma MUST be completed before the 8th semester of high school.

• The student will revert to the standard diploma requirements of their high school if all requirements are not completed before the 8th_{semester of high school.}

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F. At the beginning of each school year, parents of students in or entering high school must be notified of the opportunity and benefits of these acceleration mechanisms. (F.S. 1003.02)

G. Any student who graduates early may elect to still participate in school and social events and other specifically named events as part of the student’s cohort.

24 Credit State Minimum Standard Diploma

• The 24 Credit Diploma requires students to earn the 16 core credits required for the standard diploma.

• Eight elective credits are required as well as the assessments and grade point average for the standard diploma.

• All requirements for this diploma MUST be completed by the end of the 8th

semester of high school.

ACADEMIC CHALLENGING CURRICULUM TO ENHANCE LEARNING (ACCEL) PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES FOR 9-12 HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Each high school offers Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL) options: whole-grade and mid-year promotion, subject matter acceleration, virtual instruction in higher grade-level subjects, and the Credit Acceleration Program (CAP). Program specifics are available through the student’s school counselor. Such placement shall be made after review and approval by the school principal (or designee) and school counselor. (F.S. 1002.3105)

IMPORTANT NOTE:

A high school student must successfully complete all credits and assessments required for graduation by the State of Florida.

Whole Grade Promotion

Acceleration by whole grade promotion is the skipping of a grade level when the student has successfully earned all of the credits required to be promoted to the specific grade level. Credits required for specific grade promotions are listed in the High School Student Progression Plan.

Mid-Year Promotion

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High School Credit in Middle School

In accordance with Florida statutes F.S. 1003.4156, 1008.22 (3)(c)2.a., eligible middle school students may be enrolled in high school credit-earning courses. Students must meet all specified eligibility criteria for the high school course requested. Courses will adhere to high school grading policy which may be found in the High School Student Progression Plan. High School credits earned in grades 6-8 will become part of the student’s permanent high school academic history and will be counted toward specific grade promotion in high school. Subject Matter Acceleration (Credit Acceleration Program – F.S. 1003.4295)

The Credit Acceleration Program (CAP) authorizes secondary students to earn high school credit in a course that requires a statewide, standardized end-of-course (EOC) assessment if the student attains a specified passing score on the EOC. These courses include Algebra 1, Geometry, Biology and U.S. History and all other courses identified in state statutes.

The district shall award course credit to a student who is not enrolled in the course, or who has not completed the course, if the student attains a passing score as defined in F.S. 1008.22(3)c 5 on the corresponding EOC. Students and parents interested in this option should contact the school counselor.

The CAP requirements and eligibility process is as follows:

• The EOC will be administered only at the times established by the state assessment calendar.

• The score necessary to earn credit will be determined by the state and applied in all situations.

• Only credit (no grade) will be earned by meeting the passing score on the EOC. • For the April testing date, the Mastery Exam Request Form (Appendix C) must be

completed and received by school counselor no later than February 1.

• For the July testing date, the Mastery Exam Request Form (Appendix C) must be completed and received by school counselor no later than May 1.

• For the September testing date, the Mastery Exam Request Form (Appendix C) must be completed and received by the school counselor no later than July 1.

• For the December/January testing date, the Mastery Exam Request Form (Appendix D) must be completed and received by the school counselor no later than October 1. • As part of the Mastery Exam Request, students will be required to supply evidence

that they are prepared to sit for the EOC or that there is reasonable justification for the request. This evidence includes but is not limited to previous FCAT scores and grade in the most recent math or science course taken.

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III. COURSE CREDIT (F.S.1003.436)

A credit (1) for high school graduation is defined as a minimum of 135 hours (or 120 hours in a flexible/block schedule) of bona fide instruction in a designated course which contains student performance standards. Credit will also be awarded to students who demonstrate mastery of course content and student performance standards through alternative instructional delivery models such as performance- based instruction, extended school year programs, and flexible/block scheduling. A. Courses Excluded from Credit Awarding (F.S. 1003.43(7))

No high school student may be granted credit toward high school graduation for enrollment in the following courses or programs: more than a total of nine (9) elective credits in remedial programs, more than three (3) credits in practical arts family and consumer science classes, more than (1) credit in exploratory career and technical courses, or any level 1 courses unless the student’s assessment shows a more rigorous course would not be appropriate (this need must be included in the student’s IEP or performance plan, such as an Academic

Performance Plan, and signed by principal, school counselor, student, and parent). B. Course Substitutions and Waivers (1011.62, and DOE Annual Course Code Directory)

A course that has been used to substitute in one subject area may not be used to substitute for any other subject area. Course substitutions may not count toward state university system admissions requirements.

PLEASE NOTE: Program substitutions will remain in effect for students entering grade 9 prior to July 1, 2013.

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COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS AND WAIVERS

REQUIRED COURSES APPROVED SUBSTITUTIONS

1.0

HOPE (Health Opportunities through Physical Education)

Participation in two Seasons of an interscholastic sport at the JV and Varsity levels and a passing grade of C on a Personal Fitness Competency test.

Or Completion of 2 Full Years ROTC 1.0

Performing/Fine/Practical Arts Completion of 2 full Years of ROTC

OTHER COURSE(S) WITH ALLOWABLE SUBSTITUTION

APPROVED SUBSTITUTIONS 1.0

Physical Science

Successful completion of the JROTC

Naval Science Program (Naval Science I, II, III) .5

Physical Education

Successful completion of the Army JROTC Leadership Educational Training Courses I and II. Foreign-Born Students entering high school with

1.0 – 4.0 credits in the study of English language

1.0 – 4.0 credits for student’s study of a foreign language (in this case, the foreign language is English for that student).

Foreign-Born Students entering high school with 1.0 – 4.0 credits in the study of their own

country’s primary language

1.0 – 4.0 credits in English (e.g. a French student gets credit for studying French in the same way that an American student gets credit for studying

English). .5 Credit/1.0 Credit

Performing/Fine/Practical Arts

Successful completion of any art form course, that requires manual dexterity, or a course in speech and debate (F.S.1003.43)

Substitutions listed in Annual DOE Course Code Directory

A student who earns an industry certification for which there is a statewide college credit articulation

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C. NCAA Eligibility – If a student wishes to participate in NCAA Division I or II athletics, the student needs to be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center. The student needs to qualify academically and needs to be cleared as an amateur student-athlete. The student is responsible for achieving and protecting his/her eligibility status.

D. Course Titles on Transcripts

A course title on a student schedule and transcript means that the student is receiving regular, planned instruction, by a teacher following the course content as defined in the State of Florida Curriculum Course Descriptions (Frameworks) and the School Board of Sarasota County curriculum. GPA weight is dependent upon the course, and all weighted courses must be approved by the School Board and in compliance with statutory requirements and articulation agreement(s) with post-secondary institutions.

E. Determination of Mastery of Student Performance Standards

Student performance standards will be measured on a regular, continuous basis. Such measurements may be made through the use of teacher observations, classroom assignments, and traditional and alternative forms of assessment. A student will have demonstrated mastery of student performance standards for a district-approved course when through teacher observations, classroom

assignments, and examinations, it has been determined that a student has

attained a passing score for the course. This score and the procedures to be used to determine semester and yearly averages will be in accordance with the

procedures as outlined in this Student Progression Plan and End of Course Examinations as mandated by the state.

Although course preparation is recommended, students are not required to take the course prior to taking an EOC examination.

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F. ELL/LEP Credit

English Language Learners (ELL)/Limited English Proficient (LEP) shall be given credit toward fulfilling graduation requirements in English for each basic ESOL course completed satisfactorily. Credit shall be given toward fulfilling graduation requirements for each basic subject area course completed satisfactorily which was delivered using ESOL strategies. ELL/LEP students shall be given either elective credit or reading credit depending upon course content and teacher compliance for basic ESOL courses and Developmental Language Arts through ESOL as outlined in the DOE Course Code Directory.

English Language Learners/Limited English Proficient (ELL/LEP students) many not receive a failing grade if instructional strategies, materials, and assessment have not been modified in order to meet their instructional needs. In addition, these modifications and strategies must be documented in teacher lesson plans. School administrators in charge of teacher evaluation are responsible for ensuring that teachers are modifying instruction and assessment in order to provide

comprehensive instruction to ELL/LEP students.

The grade placement shall be age appropriate for students identified as ELL/LEP students who were born in a foreign country and are registering for the first time in Sarasota County Schools.

Each school will offer instruction for ELL/LEP that complies with the 1990 LULAC/META Consent Decree and the District ELL/LEP Plan (approved by the School Board of Sarasota County and the Florida Department of Education). G. Variety of Instructional Techniques and Instructional Media for All Students

A variety of instructional techniques and instructional media consistent with the needs of individuals or student groups shall be utilized. In particular, varied instructional strategies, special communications equipment, or modification of methods of evaluation may be used to accommodate those students in

exceptional student education and/or alternative education programs, and ELL/LEP.

IV. TRANSFER OF CREDITS (F.S. 1003.433(1))

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which he/she is transferring. However, to receive a standard high school diploma, a transfer student must earn an unweighted 2.0 grade point average and pass the Florida State Standards Assessments in English Language Arts and Mathematics SAT/ACT and other alternate assessments described in F.S. 1008.22(10).

Legislation may change options for alternative assessments. End of course

assessments required for the student’s grade 9 cohort are required unless specific assessments have been taken in the state the student transfers from. The school counselor and registrar will determine the course and assessment requirements for the transferring student.

B. The grade placement of any student transferring from another state or private school will be determined by the principal (or designee) of the receiving school. C. Students entering school from a foreign nation or from a public, private or home

school, and who are not able to provide a valid transcript or original report cards, shall identify and describe all courses taken in previous years.

D. The following procedures shall govern transfer of credit:

All evidence of work or credits earned at another public school, community college, or university offered for acceptance shall be based on an official transcript authenticated by the principal (or designee).

1. Credits earned through institutions affiliated with the following accrediting agencies will be automatically approved:

a. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools b. Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools c. New England Association of Colleges and Schools d. North Central Association of Colleges and Schools e. Northwest Association of Accredited Schools f. Western Association of Colleges and Schools g. Council of Bilingual Schools

h. Episcopal Diocese of Florida

i. Florida Coalition of Christian Private Schools

j. Florida Conference of Seventh-day Adventist Schools k. Florida League of Christian Schools

l. Lutheran Schools of Florida-Georgia District (FLGA-LCMS)

m. National Council on Private School Accreditation (NCPSA) member agencies

• Accrediting Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools, Colleges and Universities

• Association of Christian Schools International

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• Association of Independent Schools of Florida • Association of Waldorf Schools of North America • Christian Schools International

• Christian Schools of Florida • Florida Catholic Conference

• Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools • International Christian Accrediting Association • Kentucky Nonpublic School Commission • Montessori School Accreditation Commission • National Independent Private School Association • Florida Council on Independent Schools (FCIS)

• Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS) 3. Credits earned from the following agencies and local member schools are also

accepted at face value:

ACCREDITING AGENCY LOCAL/REGIONAL SCHOOL

Accrediting Association of Seventh Day Adventist Schools, Colleges, and Universities

Port Charlotte Adventist School

Accrediting Commission International Heritage Christian Academy (Englewood) Christian Schools of Florida Bradenton Christian

Correspondence Schools (known to be accredited) University of Florida; University of Nebraska; American School (Chicago); Keystone Florida Association of Christian Colleges and

Schools

West Florida Christian; Community Christian (Manatee County); Port Charlotte Christian School

Florida Catholic Conference Incarnation School; Cardinal Mooney; St. Joseph; Bishop Verot (Ft. Myers)

Florida Council of Independent Schools Bradenton Christian; St. Stephens; The Out-of- Door Academy; Sarasota Christian School; Julie Rohr Academy, Goldie Feldman Academy Florida League of Christian Schools Tabernacle Christian

Montessori School Accreditation Commission New Gate School National Lutheran School Accreditation Concordia Lutheran

National Private Schools Association Group Brickhouse Academy; Prew Academy; Achievement Center; Morningstar Academy

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Florida Virtual School (FLVS); Sylvan Center; Super Camp; Broach School Bradenton

APPROVED SUMMER EDUCATOIN PROGRAMS University of Florida Student Science Training Program

University of Florida Young Entrepreneurs for Leadership and Change Program

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as transfer elective credit.

5. The Sarasota County grade weighting system will apply to all courses that are equivalent to or are identified in the State Course Code Directory and

designated as weighted courses by the Sarasota County District School Board.

E. Transfer of Credit from Non-accredited and Foreign Schools.

1. Credits from non-accredited schools, as well as foreign schools, will be evaluated on the basis of comparability to local courses in terms of course length and content in some cases, communications with the previous school will be necessary and a translation of transcripts required. Students transferring from another country shall receive English credit (Language Arts) for primary language study. English or a language other than student’s native language as it appears on a foreign transcript will be reflected as foreign language credit.

2. Students transferring into a public school from a non-accredited school or a foreign school must be placed at the appropriate sequential course level. For example, an 11th grade transfer student may validate his English I and II credits taken at the sending school with a 2.0 GPA in English III at the receiving

school. Students who do not meet a 2.0 GPA, or choose not to continue to the next sequential level in a particular subject area (i.e., foreign languages), must have their credits validated using an approved alternative validation

procedure (described below).

F. Transfer of Credit from Home Schools (F.S. 1002.25; 6A-1.09941 SBER)

A student entering a Sarasota County high school from a home education program must present documentation (i.e., the student’s portfolio with dated samples of work) which indicates the courses in which the student received home instruction. High School credits may not be given solely on the basis of time spent in a home education program. The decision regarding credits will be made by the high school principal. Parents shall provide to the school a detailed course description for each course, indicating objectives, instructional materials, and methods of student performance evaluation. Courses will be evaluated on the basis of comparability to local courses in terms of course length and content. Parents shall provide evidence that each course eligible for one high school credit

consisted of at least 135 (or 120 in a flexible/block schedule) hours of instruction. If the receiving school cannot validate course/credit attainment through a

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G. Validation of Credits

Work or credits from home schools, private schools, other than those accredited by agencies in listed in Section IV (D ) above, as well as tutorial agencies, and correspondence school programs, shall be validate by performance assessment conducted during the first grading period. If requested, home education students shall be provided up to ninety days to prepare for the required assessment(s). A transferring student shall be placed at the appropriate sequential course level and should have a minimum grade point average of 2.0 at the end of the first grading period. For students who do not meet this requirement, any of the following alternatives may be used by the District to validate credits: 1. Portfolio evaluation by principal or designee.

2. Written recommendation by a Florida-certified teacher selected by the parent and approved by the principal.

3. Demonstrated performance in courses taken through dual enrollment or at other public or private accredited schools.

4. Demonstrated proficiencies on nationally-normed subject area assessments. 5. Written review of the criteria utilized for a given subject provided by the

former school.

6. Demonstrated by 70% proficiency level on the end of course exam. The district’s Office of School Choice, Virtual School, and Charter Schools in collaboration with the district Curriculum and Instruction Department and the school will assist with the evaluation of Home School student credit. If letter or numerical grades were not awarded at the prior school, the student will be awarded a grade that is equivalent to his/her end-of- course summative

performance in the next sequential course. The final decision regarding credit is the responsibility of the school principal.

H. Transfer of Credits for Foreign Exchange Students

1. Foreign Exchange students who wish to enroll in a Sarasota County school must show proof of English Language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing prior to enrolling.

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foreign exchange students (i.e., U.S. citizens who left the U.S.A. through a recognized program for one or more years) must present a valid transcript or original report card upon their registration in a Sarasota County school. All grades for these high school students will have the option to be converted to pass/fail. Special note: Acceptance of pass/fail would prohibit student eligibility for all interscholastic competition due to the inability to calculate and meet the minimum 2.0 grade point average requirement.

3. Foreign exchange students (non U.S. citizens) shall be given the option of accepting the grades earned in course work at the local district school or accepting a pass/fail designation. [Special note: Acceptance of pass/fail would prohibit student eligibility for all interscholastic competition due to the inability to calculate and meet the minimum 2.0 grade point average requirement.]

4. Foreign exchange students from other countries (in an approved exchange program listed in the most current Council on Standards for International Education Travel [CSIET] Advisory List) upon leaving a Sarasota County school shall receive a valid transcript of their work while in the district. Students in their fourth year of high school, and who provide a valid transcript of their three previous year’s work translated in English, shall be eligible for a Sarasota County diploma if they meet all requirements for graduation. In addition, the student must earn the required grade point average and pass the appropriate state test(s) required for graduation and have met the minimum state of Florida graduation credits.

I. Transfer of Credit: Educational Opportunity for Military Children – See Appendix C

V. DROP/ADD TIMELINES, PROCEDURES, AND GRADING FOR CONTINUING STUDENTS A. Timeline for Dropping Courses in our High Schools, Sarasota Virtual School.

A student may drop or add a full credit course within two weeks of the beginning of the course. No drop/adds will be allowed after two weeks from the beginning of the course. A student may drop or add a half-credit course within 1 week of the beginning of the course. This ruling applies to full-time Sarasota Virtual School.

B. Timeline for Dropping Courses in Sarasota Virtual Academy

A student may drop an SVA course within the first 28 calendar days of

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who drop an SVA course after 28 calendar days of enrollment or after being 20% complete with the course will receive a grade of WP or WF based on their grade at the time of the drop. Any drop after the 28 calendar day period must be approved by a guidance counselor.

This policy does not apply to the full time Sarasota Virtual School program. Note: Some exceptions exist for ESE and transfer students. B.

C. Timeline for Dropping Dual Enrollment Courses

Post-secondary institutions have drop/add procedures and timelines. Students who are enrolled in a Sarasota County High School and taking dual enrollment off the campus of their district school sites must comply with the timelines delineated by the post-secondary institution.

D. Timeline for Dropping Florida Virtual School (FLVS) Courses

Florida Virtual School has its own institutional drop/add procedures and timelines; however, all School Board of Sarasota County students who participate in FLVS must be enrolled for full school days in a SBSC school and must comply with the timelines delineated by the School Board of Sarasota County. While students await acceptance to FLVS, they must remain enrolled fulltime in SBSC schools. Florida Virtual School “W/F” codes will be treated as a grade of “F” on the student transcript.

E. Grade Assignment for Dropped Courses

In a drop/add situation, the receiving teacher assigns the grade. The teacher of the dropped course will not assign a grade.

1. Record of Changes

Courses which are dropped within the add/drop window may not appear on report cards; however, the student information system will retain all drop/add changes. The grade for a dropped course will not be calculated in the GPA. 2. Exceptions

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F. ESE Considerations

A student may transfer from a regular education course into a one-credit ESE fundamental course prior to the beginning of the second semester to earn credit toward a special diploma. The grade in a regular education course may not equate to the sample grade in an ESE fundamental course (special diploma) due to the differences in course expectations and performance standards.

Consequently, it is the responsibility of the ESE teacher to assign a grade based on demonstrated mastery of fundamental standards for work completed before and after the course change. Exceptions to the above mentioned timeline can be made based on the individual student needs as determined by the IEP team.

VI. GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION (F.S. 1008.25)

TRADITIONAL HIGH SCHOOLS

Booker, North Port, Riverview, Sarasota, Venice, and Sarasota Virtual School END OF YEAR PROMOTION

CLASS OF TO BE PROMOTED TO CREDITS EARNED COURSES REQUIRED 2013 & thereafter 10th Grade 4 5 11th Grade 10 10 01 01

1.0 English and 1.0 Math

12th Grade 16 2.0 English and 2.0 Math

2012

10th Grade 6

BLOCK HIGH SCHOOL

Suncoast Polytechnical High School (28 Credits) END OF YEAR PROMOTION

TO BE PROMOTED TO CREDITS EARNED COURSES REQUIRED

10th Grade 6

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BLOCK HIGH SCHOOL

Suncoast Polytechnical High School (28 Credits) MID YEAR PROMOTION

10th Grade 7

PINE VIEW SCHOOL (26 Credits) END OF YEAR & MID YEAR PROMOTION

10th Grade 6

VII. READING REMEDIATION [F.S. 1003.428-2.C]

A. Each year a student scores Level I OR Level 2 on 9th grade or 10th grade Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) in reading, the student must be enrolled in and

complete an intensive remedial course the following year or be placed in a content TRADITIONAL HIGH SCHOOLS

Booker, North Port, Riverview, Sarasota, Venice, and Sarasota Virtual School MID YEAR PROMOTION

CLASS OF TO BE PROMOTED TO CREDITS EARNED COURSES REQUIRED 2013 & thereafter

10th Grade 6

2012

10th Grade 6

2011

10th Grade 7

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area course that includes remediation skills not acquired by the student. B. Students identified as having a deficiency in reading will undergo a series of

diagnostic testing to determine the specific areas of deficiency in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary. Students will be placed according to the district K-12 Comprehensive Reading Plan. Schools shall also provide for the frequent progress monitoring of all Level 1 and 2 Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) reading students’ progress in meeting the desired levels of performance.

VIII. REMEDIATION [F.S. 1008.25]

A. Schools are expected to provide, with school district assistance, a variety of strategies to meet the individual needs of students. These strategies may include but are not limited to extended school year, dropout prevention services, tutorial programs, exceptional student education, modified curriculum, reading

instruction, after-school instruction and other extended day services, tutoring, mentoring, class size reduction, and intensive skills development programs. B. For each year in which a student scores a Level 1 on Florida Standards

Assessment (FSA) in Mathematics, the student must complete an intensive mathematics course the following year, which may be taught through applied, integrated, or combined courses.

C. Each year a student scores Level 1 or Level 2 on the Algebra 1 EOC assessment, the student must be enrolled in and complete an intensive remedial course the following year or be placed in a content area course that includes remediation of skills not acquired by the student.

D. Beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, college readiness assessments (PERT, ACT, or SAT) shall be administered to all high school students prior to grade 12 with defined Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) scores. The State Board of Education has established by rule the minimum test scores a student must

achieve to demonstrate readiness. See Appendix A and B. Students achieving the minimum scores, and enrolling in a community college within two years, will not be required to enroll in remediation courses. High schools must provide students in grade 12 who score below the minimum scores access to remedial instruction prior to graduation.

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A. The time required to complete senior high school will depend upon successful completion of required state and district credits, testing requirements and grade point average. SCSB policy 5.20 II F, G, H

B Parents or guardians of each student will be notified in writing annually of the progress of the student toward achieving the district’s identified minimum levels of performance in reading and mathematics and the student’s results on each statewide assessment test to include those needed as graduation requirement. Evaluation of each student’s progress will be based upon the student’s classwork, observations, tests, district and state assessment and other relevant information. C. Teachers must contact parent(s) by phone call, email or letter any time during a

grading period when it is apparent that the student may fail. Formal notification must include progress reports as well as letters, documented phone calls, report cards and parent conferences. Every effort will be made to provide

communication in the child’s/parent’s home language, if feasible. The

opportunity for a conference with the teacher or principal must be provided to the parent of any student who may be retained.

D. At the end of each semester, the parent or guardian of each student in grades 9, 10, 11, 12 who has an unweighted cumulative grade point average of less than 2.5 must be notified that the student is at risk of not meeting the requirements for graduation.

E. School personnel should attempt to identify those students at each grade level in grades 9 through 12 who have attained a cumulative grade point average at or below the minimum grade point average required for graduation pursuant to F.S. 1003.43(5)(e)2. School must further inform parents of provisions for assisting such students to achieve the required cumulative grade point average

1003.43(5)(e)2. Provisions may include but not be limited to: • Referral to the school’s Intervention Team

• Remedial groups within existing classes

• Extended School Year programs for students who qualify • Credit recovery programs for students who qualify • Remedial programs during the day

F. No student may be retained based solely on his/her level of English language proficiency. A formal retention recommendation regarding an English Language Learner/Limited English Proficient may be made through the action of an ELL/LEP committee [F.S. 1008.25].

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1. In no case shall this decision to mid-year promote or reclassify grade level be based on age or on the basis of social promotion. For students who are retained, the school will consider placement in an intensive program that is different from the previous year’s program and that takes into account the student’s learning style. When students are retained for two or more years, the school will consider other, more intensive or alternative placements. 2. A transition meeting will be held with middle school and high school

counselors and administrators when an 8th grade student is being considered for promotion to high school when all middle school courses have been recovered to include all academic options prior to the end of the first semester.

3. Students who have successfully completed all graduation requirements for the option in which they are enrolled (traditional, 18 credit Accelerated Diploma, 24 credit Early Graduation Diploma) may graduate at mid-year. Counselors will provide information for dual enrollment, early admission or post-

secondary options available to mid-term graduates. Graduates may return to their school for graduation ceremonies.

H. High School Credit for Middle Grade Students

1. Middle grade students are expected to meet the same course and grade requirements for such courses as their counterparts enrolled in the same courses in the district’s high schools. These courses may be used to satisfy high school graduation requirements and/or Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program. Grade replacement and/or forgiveness policies may be found in this document.

2. Based on [FS 1003.428], middle school students who attempt Algebra I, Algebra I Honors, Geometry Honors, Spanish I, French I, Chinese I, or Speech I or other approved courses through ACCEL for high school credit may repeat the same or a comparable course to replace a grade of “C”, “D”, or “F” through grade forgiveness. Any grade for a repeated course for credit will replace the former grade in GPA calculation however, all course grades will be documented on high school official academic transcripts, cumulative student records, and automated systems. In addition, grades from all courses taken must be included in the GPA calculation unless the grade has been forgiven by retaking the same or comparable course. Under local district policy, if

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calculation.

3. Students who drop a high school course are strongly encouraged to do so during the first grading quarter to avoid academic penalties. If students remain in a high school course(s) through the second grading quarter (first semester), the grade(s) and credit(s) earned will be added to the high school official academic transcript. Any student dropping a high school course will be returned to a comparable middle school level course. One semester of a high school math course will be considered partial fulfillment of the math course requirement for promotion from 8th to 9th grade.

X. REQUIREMENTS FOR CURRICULUM, INSTRUCTION AND ASSESSMENT

A. Each high school offers options to students to enter a Career and Professional Education (CAPE) Academy. CAPE Academies are small, personalized career themed learning communities within a high school that offer a rigorous academic curriculum and career themed courses that lead to an industry certification. Industry certifications articulate to postsecondary level coursework and provide instruction to high skill, high wage and high demand careers. CAPE Academies have partnerships with postsecondary institutions, business and industry. B. The district will make available at least one Career and Professional Academy to

students in each high school.

C. All students will receive information on the consequences of failure to receive a standard diploma, including the potential ineligibility for financial assistance at post-secondary educational institutions (F.S. 1003.433).

D. Each school will offer instruction for English Language Learners/Limited English Proficient (ELL/LEP) that complies with the 1900 LULAC/META Consent Decree and the District ELL/LEP Plan (approved by the School Board of Sarasota County and the Florida DOE).

E. Each student must participate in statewide assessment tests at designated grade levels as required by F.S. 1008.22, 1008.34 & 1001.11.

F. Students entering grade 9 in the 2011-2012 school year and beyond must

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XI. COMMUNITY SERVICE

A. Students who enroll in and successfully complete 75 hours of non-paid voluntary community or school service work may earn one-half elective credit in Voluntary School/Community Service (course number 2104330) or one-half elective credit in Voluntary Public Service (course number 0500370). A total of one credit may be earned through community service. The grade awarded is “pass” (P).

B. Students must complete a minimum of 75 hours of service in order to earn the one-half credit for either course. Credit may not be earned for service provided as a result of court action. The school principal or designee is responsible for pre- approving specific volunteer activities before the student begins any community service project for high school elective credit. Community service begins on the first day of school.

C. For high school credit and Bright Futures eligibility, volunteer/community service hours must be completed prior to graduation. Note: Please see Bright Futures website for most update information.

XII. STUDENT RIGHTS FOR INSTRUCTION

A. All School Board of Sarasota County classes, including those that are designed to provide accelerated graduation options or additional opportunities for weighted GPAs, shall be available to all students without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation. This is not intended to eliminate the provision of programs designed to meet the needs of students with limited proficiency in English or exceptional education students (F.S. 1000.05).

B. English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services are designed to meet the communicative, academic, and social needs of English Language Learners/Limited English Proficient (ELL/LEP) as defined in F.S. 1003.56. Services will be provided as outlined in the District ELL/LEP Plan. No ELL/LEP student will be retained solely due to a lack of English language proficiency.

C. No student will be denied appropriate use of his/her primary language [F.S. 1003.56].

D. Students who score at highly proficient levels on the Grade 10 PSAT may be

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guidelines were recommended for high school students to access rigorous courses: 1. Demonstrate regular school attendance.

2. Demonstrate academic performance by grades and standardized test scores (FSA, FAIR, PSAT, SAT, ACT, PERT, etc.).

3. Parents/students can select rigorous courses when a student demonstrates master of curricular prerequisites as evidenced through academic history (grades/standardized test scores).

4. Any student taking an AP, AICE, or IB course(s) will be required to take the end of the year AP, AICE or IB course tests and any other final exam pertaining to the course. Students that do not sit for the end of year course test will be required to pay ($100) per exam.

E. Any student who believes that he/she has been denied participation in or access to an education program or activity, or has otherwise been discriminated against due to age, sex, race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, handicapping condition, pregnancy, parenthood, marriage, political beliefs, social and family

background or for any other reason not related to his/her individual capabilities, may file a grievance according to the procedure established in School board policy and published in the brochure entitled Policy Against Discrimination for Students, which may be access

at: http://www.sarasotacountyschools.net/departments/hr/default.aspx?id=13822

F. In cases of alleged discrimination and /or harassment, nothing in this policy shall prohibit a student, applicant (for admission to an educational program or service) or parent from pursuing a grievance through the complaint and /or grievance procedures as may be established by federal and/or state statutes or regulations. No student, applicant (for admission to an educational program or service), parent, or employee shall be subject to adverse action in retaliation for having filed a grievance or for having testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing conducted under the authority of this policy.

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A. Quality Points for Grades (F.S. 1003.437)

The following unweighted quality points will be assigned for grades in all courses per one credit earned:

A = 4.0 B = 3.0 C = 2.0 D = 1.0 F = 0

All Advance Placement, International Baccalaureate, AICE, and Dual Enrollment courses will receive weighted quality points per one credit earned as follows:

A = 5.0

B = 4.0 C = 3.0 D = 2.0 F = 0

Some School Board of Sarasota County-approved level 3 Honors, identified Pre- international Baccalaureate and Pre-AICE courses will receive weighted quality points per one credit earned as follows:

A = 4.5 B = 3.5 C = 2.5

D = 1.5 F = 0 B. Grade Point Averages (GPA)

Grade Point Averages are computed as both weighted and unweighted for specific purposes related to athletic eligibility, graduation, class ranking, scholarship opportunities, etc.

C. GPA and Other Criteria for Participation in Interscholastic Activities [F.S.1006.15(2)] Interscholastic extracurricular activities are those organized student activities between, among or within schools which are carried on outside the curriculum or regular course of study in school. These activities may involve displays of talent which include, but are not limited to, sports, speech debate, and fine arts interscholastic competitions or festivals and career and technical student organization activities.

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School Athletic Association policies to be eligible to participate in interscholastic extracurricular student activities, a student must maintain an unweighted

cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above on a 4.0 scale, or its equivalent, in the courses required by F.S. 1006.43(1) at the conclusion of each semester in order to be eligible during the following semester.

A student shall be eligible for the first semester of the ninth-grade year provided it is the student’s first entry into the ninth grade, and he or she was regularly promoted from the eighth grade the immediate preceding year.

A student who is ineligible during the second semester of his or her ninth grade year or during the first semester of his or her tenth grade year as a result of earning a GPA of less than 2.0 may regain eligibility for the following semester provided:

1. The student signs an academic performance contract that states, at a minimum, the student will attend summer school or its equivalent, AND 2. The student earns a GPA of 2.0 or above in all courses taken during the

semester of ineligibility.

Once a student enters grade 11, he or she must have an unweighted cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater on a 4.0 scale in all courses required for graduation at the conclusion of each semester in order to maintain eligibility for the following semester.

Additionally, a student must maintain satisfactory conduct. If a student is arrested and charged or is found to have committed a felony or a delinquent act which would have been a felony if committed by an adult, regardless of whether adjudication is withheld, the student’s participation in the interscholastic

extracurricular activities is contingent upon established and published school board policy.

D. Graduation GPA [F.S. 1007.27(6)]

The achievement of a cumulative unweighted grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale in the courses need for graduation is required. All courses must be included in unweighted GPA calculation unless the grade has been forgiven or replaced. Semester grades will be averaged for the unweighted GPA calculation [F.S. 1003.43(5)].

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XIV. GRADING AND STUDENT PERFORMANCE

A. Initial and primary authority and responsibility for assessment and reporting of students’ classroom performance is assigned to the classroom teacher.

B. The grades reflecting achievement in courses for grades 9 – Adult, with numerical equivalents, shall be:

A = B = C = D = F = 90 - 100 80 - 89 70 - 79 60 - 69 59 - 0 Outstanding Progress Above Average Progress Average Progress

Lowest Acceptable Progress Failure I = M = P = W = 0 Incomplete

Medical Excuse M is used for missing EOC

Passes, Credits, No GPA Withdrawn

C. For each course taken in high school, twenty percent (20%) of the grade shall be based on the development of employability skills. Those skills will include: 1. Attendance

2. Coming to school or class on time

3. Bringing required work tools, such as paper, pen/pencil, textbooks, notebooks, etc.

4. Maintenance of an assignment notebook or similar system 5. Completion of homework

6. Appropriate dress for class

7. Attitude of cooperation with teacher and fellow students 8. Time in class devoted to the appropriate task

D. The final grade for a full-credit course is the mathematical average of the Term 1, Term 2 grades, and the midterm and final exam which may not exceed 30%. E. Semester Assessment

1. The purposes of giving the mid-term exams are to provide instruction and experience in preparing for and taking comprehensive, cumulative

assessments; to prepare students for post-secondary college course work; and to serve as a validation of mastery of the course content.